Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Immigration to Panama and the Panama Digital Traveler Declaration
- What is the Panama Digital Traveler Declaration? The Panama Digital Traveler Declaration is an online system that replaces traditional paper forms. All foreign travelers entering Panama by air, land, or sea must complete this digital form before arrival to streamline immigration procedures and enhance security.
- Who must submit the Digital Declaration? All foreign nationals, including tourists, business travelers, and temporary residents, must submit the digital form regardless of their visa status (exempt, visa on arrival, or with a visa). Holders of a Guatemalan passport are exempt.
- When should I submit the form? It is recommended to complete the Digital Declaration at least 3 days before arriving in Panama to ensure smooth processing and avoid delays at immigration checkpoints.
- Where can I submit the Digital Declaration? The form must be submitted on the official Honduran government website. Be sure to use only the official portal to avoid scams. The system is integrated with platforms such as electronic visas and health control services for convenience.
- Is there a fee to submit the Digital Declaration? Submission of the form is free. However, other services like electronic visas or tourist taxes may involve additional costs.
- What information is required to complete the form?
You will need to provide:
- Full name, nationality, and passport details
- Flight or vehicle number and arrival date
- Purpose of visit (e.g., tourism, business)
- Address of accommodation in Panama
- Contact details (phone, email)
- Health declaration, including symptoms and vaccination status (such as yellow fever certificate if applicable)
- Do I need a smartphone to complete the form? Although the form is designed to be submitted online, self-service kiosks and immigration officers will be available at entry points to assist those without smartphones. However, it is recommended to complete it in advance.
- What happens if I do not submit the form before arriving? You can complete it upon arrival at the airport or border point using self-service kiosks or with help from officers. However, this may cause delays, so it is suggested to submit it beforehand.
- How will I know if my form was received correctly? You will receive a confirmation email with a QR code or reference number. Keep a digital or printed copy to present at immigration upon arrival.
- Can I modify my form after submitting it? Yes, the system allows corrections. You can log back in with your application details to make changes before arrival.
- Is the form equivalent to a visa? No, this form does not replace a visa. It is a mandatory digital arrival card for immigration and security purposes. Make sure you have the appropriate visa or are exempt.
- What health declarations are required? You must declare any symptoms (such as fever or cough) and vaccination details, such as a yellow fever certificate if arriving from an affected country. If symptoms are declared, you may be evaluated by health authorities before immigration.
- Do children need to submit the form? Yes, all travelers, including children and infants, must have the form. Children under 12 may be included in a parent’s application, but those over 12 must submit their own form.
- What if I lose my confirmation? You can retrieve it by logging back into the official portal with your application details. It is recommended to keep both digital and printed copies as backup.
- How does this form affect my departure from Panama? The system may auto-fill departure data based on arrival information. You will need to provide your departure flight or vehicle number and present the digital departure card when leaving the country.
- Do I need to submit the form if I am only transiting through Panama? If you do not pass through immigration (i.e., stay in the international transit zone), you do not need to submit it. But if you enter the country even briefly, you must complete it.
- Is the form available in multiple languages? Yes, the form is available in several languages, including Spanish, English, French, and other common international languages.
- How does the form improve the immigration process? The digital form reduces paperwork, speeds up entry, and enhances security by integrating with platforms such as electronic visas and health control. It also allows Honduran authorities to better track traveler flows.
- What other immigration requirements should I be aware of? Besides the form, ensure your passport has at least 30 days validity upon entry, and have proof of accommodation and onward travel. Any tourist taxes or electronic authorizations will be communicated through official channels.
- Where can I get help if I have problems with the form? You can contact Honduran immigration authorities via their official website. Assistance is also available at entry points through self-service kiosks and trained personnel.